IMTS 2018 is right around the corner and we know many of our customers are debating whether to make the trip or not, so we thought we’d share some interesting information about the upcoming IMTS show. At this point it’s expected to have the largest number of vendors ever, topping the previous record from 2016 which had 2,407 companies exhibiting. This means you can literally learn about any manufacturing technology or industry that interests you. There will be more than 15,000 machine tools on-hand!
One of the new items this year is the expansion onto level 2 of the East Building. In this area you’ll find Machine Components/Cleaning/Environmental Pavilion as well as Controls & CAD-CAM Pavilion Annex. It will feature 340 exhibitors from all over the world who are focused on safe, efficient and environmentally responsible operation and monitoring of machines and facilities. This will also be the primary area to learn more about tools that are leading the way in the advancements of the digital era of manufacturing through Smart Manufacturing and the Industrial Internet of Things.
Another new addition this year are the conferences that will be co-located in various areas of the show. While there have been other IMTS conferences in the past, this year there will be 7 different conferences covering a range of topics:
- Additive Manufacturing
- Applied AM-EOS Additive Day
- Global Automation Manufacturing Summit
- Integrated Industries
- Industrial Laser Conference
- Top Shops Workshop
This year’s IMTS will also feature 2 Emerging Technology Centers. Typically there has been just one, located in the North Building, but this year a second one is being added in the West Building. This additional technology center will be focused on the latest in 3D technologies and trends. The other will have a focus this year on digital manufacturing technologies.
Finally, the Additive Manufacturing Pavilion in the West Building is being expanded as well to reflect the continued growth in the industry for companies designing additive machines, creating innovative processes and materials for this industry and leading the way with new solutions.
With visitors coming from over 117 countries IMTS truly is a melting pot of ideas for the manufacturing industry. It’s the best way to learn about what’s coming, solve problems currently existing and meet with others to collaborate on growth plans for the future. Be sure to visit Brooks Associates in our various supplier’s booths such as OMAX, Sodick and Hurco.